If you were injured in an automobile crash, you’re probably feeling pretty disoriented. You also likely have a lot of issues to deal with, like visiting your doctor and arranging time off work to recover. If an Uber driver is involved in your accident, things can become even more complicated because the company has complex rules and procedures. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to contact an Uber accident attorney as soon as possible.
Gather Essential Information
Before filing a claim, collecting detailed information at the accident scene is an important step in building a strong case.
Accident Details to Record
You’ll want to begin by noting the date, time, and location of the accident. Collect the Uber driver’s name, contact information, vehicle details, and license plate number. If other vehicles are involved, collect the same details from their drivers.
Photos play a pivotal role in filing an effective claim, and you can use your cell phone to capture images of vehicle damage, skid marks, the accident scene from various angles, and any visible injuries. Your Uber accident attorney will obtain any available dashcam footage or surveillance videos, and this can provide irrefutable evidence of how the accident occurred.
Importance of Witness Statements
Approach witnesses calmly and courteously and ask them for their contact information. Once you have their details, you can request a brief statement regarding what they observed during the accident. It’s extremely beneficial to get their account as soon as possible while the event is still fresh in their minds.
If witnesses agree, record their statements using your smartphone or a voice recorder. Ensure the recording clearly reflects their observations without influencing or leading their responses. These statements can be decisive in your lawyer’s negotiations or during legal proceedings.
Report the Accident to the Authorities
Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance, even if your injuries seem minor. The full extent of some types of injuries may not be immediately apparent, but they can have serious long-term effects. If you’re suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), whiplash, internal organ injuries, or some other serious medical condition, it’s crucial to get the correct diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Law enforcement officers will evaluate the scene, document the incident, and create an official police report. This report is essential to your accident claim because it provides an unbiased account of the event. When speaking with law enforcement officials, stick to the facts and avoid speculating about the accident’s cause. It’s also a good idea to ask for the names and badge numbers of the responding officers and request a copy of the police report once it’s available.
Notify Uber and Your Insurance Company
After checking on the health and safety of other people in the vehicle and seeking medical treatment for your injuries, promptly notify Uber and your insurance company about the accident. The incident can be reported to Uber through their app or customer service hotline. Provide only factual details without admitting fault or speculating on the accident’s cause. This notification initiates Uber’s review process and its insurance coverage evaluation.
As soon as you can, contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Maintain clear and concise communication with Uber and your insurance carrier, and don’t agree to make any recorded statements about the accident. An Uber accident lawyer can advise you on the best strategy for effectively communicating with insurance representatives.
Consider Legal Assistance
Navigating Uber’s insurance policies can be frustrating. Fortunately, your Uber accident attorney knows how to build a strong case and file a claim seeking the maximum compensation from all liable parties.
Uber provides varying insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver was logged into the app but had not accepted a ride, Uber offers contingent liability coverage. Once a ride is accepted or passengers are on board, Uber’s $1 million liability policy applies, covering both bodily injury and property damage.
It is vital to determine the driver’s status during the accident to understand which coverage is applicable. This process can be complicated, and discrepancies may arise between Uber’s coverage and claims made by personal insurers. Consulting with a Colorado Springs car accident lawyer can help clarify these policies so you can pursue the appropriate compensation.
When to Consult a Lawyer
Consult with an Uber car accident attorney as soon as possible. Getting the right legal guidance is vital for safeguarding your interests throughout the legal process. Your lawyer will begin investigating the accident right away by gathering key information. Engaging an experienced legal professional enhances your ability to achieve a favorable outcome in your Uber accident claim.
How an Uber Accident Attorney Can Help
An Uber accident lawyer can dramatically increase your chances of filing a successful claim. It’s important to find a skilled negotiator with a proven track record of success. An experienced attorney knows how to accurately calculate your damages so they can seek a settlement amount that covers your medical bills, future treatment costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses caused by the accident. If an insurance company refuses to make a reasonable, your attorney must be prepared to take your case to court.
Beyond addressing the technical aspects of your case, a lawyer provides emotional support and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on recovery. Contacting the right Uber accident lawyer is a major decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
Attorneys in Colorado Springs Aggressively Represent Uber Accident Victims.
Insurance companies know which lawyers are the most formidable opponents. When you choose The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., to file your Uber accident claim, the other side will know that you mean business.
Call (719) 475-2555 to schedule a FREE consultation with our rideshare accident attorneys in Colorado Springs.